Jenkins Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Jenkins Creek, also known as Lower Jenkins Creek Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Washington County, Idaho.


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Summary

This dam, completed in 1915, serves a primary purpose that goes beyond traditional water storage, making it a unique addition to the area's water resource management. With a dam height of 40.9 feet and a capacity of 175 acre-feet, Jenkins Creek plays a crucial role in regulating water flow along the Jenkins Creek and Snake River.

Managed by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, Jenkins Creek is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the risk management measures in place indicate a moderate level of risk associated with the dam. This information highlights the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate any potential threats and protect the surrounding communities and ecosystems.

While Jenkins Creek may not be the largest dam in the region, its significance lies in its historical value and the vital role it plays in water resource management. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper maintenance and operation of dams like Jenkins Creek are essential for ensuring sustainable water use and resilience in the face of evolving environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

40.9

River Or Stream

JENKINS CREEK SNAKE RIVER

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

39.8

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

175

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

41
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.